When your municipality is recognised as the best-run municipality in the country, it’s not just a trophy for the council; it’s a win for every resident, every property owner, and every investment in the region. We are thrilled to celebrate Swartland Municipality’s celebration as South Africa’s best-performing municipality for 14 years in a row, and to share how that success strengthens our community here at Darling Green Country Estate.
Swartland Shines at National Awards
At the 2025 Municipal Performance Awards, hosted by SAPOA (the South African Property Owners Association), Ratings Afrika, and the Banking Association of South Africa, Swartland Municipality was recognised as one of the top-performing municipalities in South Africa, alongside Saldanha Bay.
This recognition is built on rigorous, independent assessment. The Ratings Afrika Municipal Financial Sustainability Index (MFSI) looks at crucial factors like:
- Financial health (ability to generate a surplus)
- Cash reserves and financial resilience
- Responsible borrowing and debt management
- Forward-looking budgeting
- Affordability of rates and tariffs
- Investment in infrastructure for long-term service delivery
Swartland improved its score this year to 74/100, up from 71/100 in 2024, a clear signal that strategic leadership, disciplined governance, and focused service delivery are paying off. It’s also worth noting that Western Cape municipalities continue to lead the pack, highlighting that even amid national challenges in local governance, some municipalities are getting it right.
Western Cape’s Minister of Local Government, Anton Bredell, added perspective: “Financial management is the foundation from which all other aspects of local government are built … a clean audit does not mean there is no poverty … but it means the municipality used the money entrusted to it for the intended purpose and within the law.”
Why This Victory Benefits Darling Green Country Estate
You might ask: “Great for Swartland, but what does this mean for us, in Darling Green Country Estate?” The answer is: quite a lot.
- Reliable Services & Infrastructure Growth
When a municipality is financially healthy and disciplined, it means fewer disruptions in key services: water, roads, electricity, waste removal, and maintenance. It means better upkeep of municipal infrastructure in and around our area.
- Greater Confidence for Property Development
Developers and investors look at municipal performance when making decisions. A municipality that consistently scores high sends a message: “We plan, we budget, we deliver.” That increases confidence in expanding services, improving roads, and new housing or amenity developments.
- More Predictable Rates & Tariffs
Discipline in budgeting and financial management reduces the risk of sudden, steep rate increases. That gives homeowners more certainty and peace of mind when budgeting for annual costs.
- Better Maintenance & Upgrades in Surrounding Areas
As Swartland invests more in infrastructure, it boosts accessibility, road improvements, upgrades to municipal facilities in nearby towns and regions, which in turn benefits Darling Green Country Estate by proximity.
- Stronger Position in Regional Planning & Partnerships
A municipality with national recognition has more credibility, which can attract partnerships, private sector investment, grants, or funding. That can lead to upgraded roads, better broadband, improved tourism infrastructure, or shared community facilities that our residents can enjoy.
A Proud Neighbourhood and Bright Future
At Darling Green Country Estate, we’re more than just a residential development; we’re tied into the rhythms, strengths, and opportunities of our region. Swartland’s honour confirms that we are in good hands. It reaffirms that we are part of a well-managed, forward-looking municipality and that the foundations are being laid for responsible growth, sustainability, and quality of life.
We congratulate Swartland Municipality, and we look forward to continuing our partnership for infrastructure, services, safety, and the shared vision of a thriving Darling region.
Let’s celebrate together and build on this momentum for our future.
